It is because inability of ns² electrons of the valence shell to participate in bonding that

(1) Sn²⁺ is reducing while Pb⁴⁺ is oxidising agent

(2) Sn²⁺ is oxidising while Pb⁴⁺ is reducing agent

(3) Sn²⁺ and Pb²⁺ are both oxidising and reducing agent

(4) Sn⁴⁺ is reducing while Pb⁴⁺ is oxidising agent

The correct statement regarding inert pair effect is -

1. Sn²⁺ is an oxidizing agent while Pb⁴⁺ is a reducing agent

2. Sn²⁺ and Pb²⁺ both are oxidizing agents

3. Sn⁴⁺ is a reducing agent while Pb⁴⁺ is an oxidizing agent

4. Sn²⁺ is a reducing agent while Pb⁴⁺ is an oxidizing agent